New Twin Otters?

Might just still be the best for the northern utilility aircraft (no plan has yet been approved to replace the Air Force's 36-year old Twotters, though some think the right new fixed-wing SAR plane might also double for the northern job).

Entrepreneur David Curtis passionately believes there is a huge demand out there for a new 20-seat version of the de Havilland Canada Twin Otter, one of the country's best-known and most rugged aircraft.

His Viking Air Ltd. has called an "operators forum" in Victoria, B.C., for Sept. 13 and 14 when he will show his plans to modernize the Twin Otter's airframe, install a pair of PT6A-34 turboprop engines from Montreal's Pratt&Whitney Canada, along with new avionics systems...

The Twin Otter remains in a class by itself in terms of size, speed, strength and versatility, Curtis added. Viking has talked certification with Transport Canada and sees no obstacles to a production restart at the Victoria, B.C., airport. It is working with suppliers to hone the business case.

"About 35 per cent of the aircraft is in production for spares and other support, including complete wing assemblies," he said. He will not disclose the number of firm orders needed to ensure he can affordably lift his Twin Otter project off ground.

The STOL (short takeoff and landing) Twin Otter is known for its reliability in extreme climates, from the jungles and deserts of Africa to the Arctic Islands and northern Quebec. It has been a workhorse for oil, gas and mining companies for years, carrying thousands of passengers and huge tonnages of fuel, equipment and supplies in remote areas...

Curtis plans to christen his new version the Twin Otter Series 400. He bought the designs, type certificates and production rights for seven of the eight de Havilland Canada heritage aircraft this year from Bombardier for an undisclosed price, planning to become a first-tier original equipment manufacturer.

Technically, Viking has the exclusive right to restart production of any of the seven, but the new Twin Otter has the most potential, Curtis said. New manufacturing technology will be a key to commercial success...